Rob Newton was awarded a place at Northants' academy after gaining a reputation as a heavy run-scorer at Framlingham College in Suffolk and steadily improved in each successive season until 2012 when he struck three first-class hundreds at an average of 44. Unfortunately for Newton, 2013 was a season of what could have been. After a bright start to the season, when 82 not out against Kent in a 40-over game, he tore his achilles when playing a sweep shot. After hitting the next ball for six, he was forced to retire hurt and have surgery, forcing him to miss the rest of the season.ESPNcricinfostaff